Global Assessment of Functioning
Also written as: GAF — Global Assessment of Functioning
A numeric scale used to rate overall psychological, social, and occupational functioning on a continuum of mental health.
Full Definition
The Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) is a 100-point scale that provides a single measure of an individual's overall level of psychological, social, and occupational functioning. Scores range from 1 (severe impairment with danger of harm) to 100 (superior functioning). The GAF was included on Axis V of the DSM-IV multiaxial system but was removed from DSM-5 due to concerns about reliability and validity. Despite its removal from official diagnostic criteria, many clinicians continue to use GAF scores for treatment planning and documenting functional improvement over time.
Usage
Usage note: No longer included in DSM-5 but still widely used clinically; avoid in formal diagnostic contexts.
In Context
- "The patient's GAF score improved from 45 to 65 following six months of intensive outpatient treatment." — Discharge summary
- "Insurance authorization requires documentation of functional impairment, including current and highest GAF scores in the past year." — Prior authorization request